Did you know that most people are able to return to work, improve their physical health, and decrease the number of medications they’re taking after recovering from spine surgery?
If you’re about to have spine surgery, chances are that you are a little worried about how everything will turn out. You also might be wondering what to do to ensure the surgery is successful.
This is why it is so important to know how to prepare for spine surgery (please ask your spine surgeon as well). We’ve written a guide to make things easier for you. Read on to find out more.
Keep Moving
Even though it can be challenging to live with back pain, you should still try your best to stay active before having surgery.
This is especially important if you are overweight. This is because those who are overweight increase the likelihood that they will encounter complications during surgery.
Ask your spine doctor if they have exercise tips for losing weight.
If it is difficult for you to be physically active because you’re experiencing back pain and have not yet talked to your doctor about the possibility of getting spine surgery, you should understand the warning signs that it’s time to consider back surgery.
Quit Smoking
Make sure to quit smoking before you have surgery. If possible, you should stop smoking for several months before you have your operation.
It is important to quit smoking because nicotine users are more likely to have complications during surgery. This includes things such as wound infections and delayed bone healing.
At the very least, tell your surgeon if you use tobacco or smokeless tobacco. They can help you to create a plan for quitting.
Check Your Medications
Various medications can cause bleeding or interfere with anesthesia during surgery. Therefore, make sure to find out whether there are any medications that you should stop taking before having spinal surgery.
It is especially important to tell your doctor if you are taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Your spine surgeon might be able to prescribe you different medications that are safe to take.
Find Out About Donating Blood
It is not common for people to need to receive blood transfusions during spine surgery. But there is always a small chance that you will lose blood during the operation.
This is why you should make sure to have a conversation with your spine surgeon about the pros and cons of donating your own blood vs. using another person’s blood.
Your spine surgeon may prescribe an iron supplement if you donate your blood. This will help to strengthen your blood.
Figure Out Your Transportation Options
You might be able to walk after your operation. But you will need help around the house while you are recovering.
This is why it is important to make plans for getting help with activities such as washing, getting dressed, doing laundry, and buying groceries.
You’ll also need to be prepared to not drive your car for a little while. Therefore, arrange your transportation in advance. At the very least, you will need to have somebody drive you home after your surgery.
If you need to take a long car trip in the days after your surgery, make sure to let your spine surgeon know in advance.
Don’t Assume That Surgery Will Solve All of Your Problems
Once you recover from your surgery and receive the right back pain treatment, you will start feeling a lot better. But don’t assume that all of your problems will be solved after getting spine surgery.
It is important to take a whole-health approach to healing your back. This will include doing exercise, eating healthy foods, and spending time with your loved ones.
You should also be prepared to visit your spine surgeon for several follow-up appointments. They are going to want to make sure that you are properly recovering.
Items to Purchase Before Having Spine Surgery
There are several items that will come in handy after your surgery. It is important to find these items before you go into the operating room.
Grabber or Reacher
There are various styles of reachers and grabbers. Make sure that you find one that is lightweight and that is at least two feet long.
You can use this item to pick up essential objects such as pencils, clothing, and keys.
Most stores that sell rehab equipment sell reachers and grabbers. You can also purchase them at department stores and pharmacies.
Prepared Meals
The last thing you are going to want to do after spine surgery is prepare meals. This is why you should purchase prepared food that can be stored in your refrigerator or freezer.
Slip-on Shoes
You should invest in a pair of slip-on shoes if you don’t already have one. It is not a good idea to bend down after surgery. You won’t have to worry about needing to do this to fasten your shoes if you have slip-on shoes.
Preparing for Spine Surgery: Know What to Expect
It is normal to feel stressed when you are about to have spine surgery. But keep in mind that the best thing you can do is prepare yourself for the procedure.
Do you have a spinal condition that is altering your quality of life? If so, The Advanced Spine Center can help you. Don’t hesitate to contact us once you are ready to get started.